Samuel Goldwyn Films has picked up the North American rights to the dark revenge comedyJudy & Punchfrom first-time director Mirrah Foulkes.

Alice in Wonderland star Mia Wasikowska and Damon Herriman topline Vice Studio's first Australian feature film, a live-action reimagining of the classic puppet show, usually known as Punch and Judy. They play two puppeteers attempting to resurrect their show as a means of escaping their failing town of Seaside, only to face an inevitable tragedy that must be avenged.

"Mirrah Foukles has created on screen a world that is reminiscent of Terry Gilliam and Tim Burton. She literally pulls no punches in this picture, which is not only thrilling but incredibly funny," Peter Goldwyn said in a statement.

The film, which bowed at Sundance, has Terry Norris, Gillian Jones, Tom Budge, Benedict Hardie and Lucy Velik in its ensemble cast. Judy & Punch was produced by Blue-Tongue Films and Vice Studios.